26/03/2025
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING AND AFTER A C-SECTION
A cesarean section (C-section) is major surgery, and knowing what to expect can help ease anxiety and prepare you physically and emotionally.
**During the C-Section**
1. **Preparation:**
- You’ll change into a hospital gown and have an IV placed for fluids and medications.
- A catheter is inserted to empty your bladder (usually after anesthesia).
- Monitors track your vitals and the baby’s heart rate.
2. **Anesthesia:**
- Most C-sections use a **spinal block** or **epidural**, which numbs you from the waist down while you stay awake.
- In emergencies, general anesthesia (putting you to sleep) may be used.
3. **The Surgery:**
- A sterile drape is placed to block your view of the procedure.
- The surgeon makes a horizontal incision (typically low, near the bikini line) through the abdomen and uterus.
- You may feel **pressure, tugging, or movement** but no pain.
- The baby is delivered within 5–10 minutes of the first incision.
4. **After Delivery:**
- Your baby is briefly checked, then placed on your chest for skin-to-skin contact if possible.
- The placenta is removed, and the incision is closed with stitches or staples (takes ~30–45 minutes).
**Immediately After Surgery**
**Recovery Room:**
- You’ll be monitored for 1–2 hours as the anesthesia wears off.
- Pain relief (IV or oral meds) is provided.
- The catheter is usually removed within 12–24 hours.
**First 24 Hours:**
- You’ll likely stay in bed until feeling returns in your legs.
- Gas pain (from abdominal air during surgery) and uterine cramping (as the uterus shrinks) are common.
- Nurses will encourage gentle movement (e.g., ankle rotations) to prevent blood clots.
**Recovery at Home: What to Expect**
**First Week:**
- **Pain Management:**
- Take prescribed painkillers or ibuprofen on schedule.
- A heating pad or pillow over the incision can ease discomfort.
- **Mobility:**
- Walking short distances helps recovery but avoid stairs, lifting anything heavier than your baby, or driving.
- Use pillows to support your abdomen when coughing, sneezing, or breastfeeding.
- **Incision Care:**
- Keep the incision clean and dry. Showering is usually allowed, but avoid scrubbing the area.
- Watch for signs of infection: redness, swelling, pus, or fever.
**Weeks 2–6:**
- Gradual improvement in strength and mobility.
- Bleeding (lochia) may continue for 4–6 weeks (like a heavy period).
- **Emotional Recovery:**
- Hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and processing the birth experience can lead to mood swings or “baby blues.”
- Seek support if feelings of sadness, guilt, or anxiety persist (possible signs of postpartum depression).
**Long-Term:**
- Scarring: The incision line will fade over months but may feel numb or itchy.
- Return to exercise: Wait until cleared by your doctor (usually 6–8 weeks).
- Future pregnancies: Most women can have vaginal births after a C-section (VBAC), depending on individual circumstances.
**Tips for a Smoother Recovery**
1. **Accept Help:** Let others handle chores, meals, or childcare for older siblings.
2. **Rest:** Sleep when the baby sleeps—your body heals fastest during rest.
3. **Hydrate and Eat Fiber:** Prevent constipation (a common post-op issue).
4. **Wear Comfortable Clothes:** Loose, high-waisted underwear and soft pants avoid irritation.
5. **Join Support Groups:** Connect with other C-section moms to share experiences.
**When to Call Your Doctor**
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
- Severe pain, redness, or discharge at the incision site
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking a pad in
Minsan mananahi, madalas budolera🛍
